THE ABSOLUTE BASICS

You would be amazed at how many candidates disqualify themselves from consideration by making careless, fundamental mistakes in completing application forms. At the very least, you should do the following:

	Get extra originals or make copies of the form.
	Very carefully check through the instructions section and any instructions in the accompanying letter - employers can be very specific e.g. block capitals in black ink.
	Read all the questions on the form thoroughly, making notes on a pad as you go. Do this at least twice.
	Draft your preliminary answers on paper and then sketch out draft on one copy or a spare original.
	Read it through several times and note any improvements you might make.
	Fill in the original. In many instances now, you can do this online. If it has to be handwritten and your calligraphy is not up to scratch, get a friend with really nice handwriting to do it for you.
	Compose your covering letter.
	Proof-read everything carefully - get a friend(s) to help you do this to ensure accuracy.
	Copy everything for your records.
	Deliver by registered post or by hand and get a receipt.

There are some elements on a typical application form that can really make a difference ...